Introduction to Gingerbread Scones with Maple Glaze
When the holiday season rolls around, there's nothing that fills the air with warmth quite like the aroma of freshly baked goods. Gingerbread scones with maple glaze are a delightful way to capture that festive spirit! With a perfect balance of spice and sweetness, these scones are not only delicious but also easy to make, making them an ideal treat for your holiday gatherings or cozy breakfasts.
Why Are Gingerbread Scones the Perfect Holiday Treat?
Gingerbread scones embody the essence of the holidays with their warm spices like ginger, cinnamon, and cloves. These flavors create a comforting, nostalgic vibe that evokes childhood memories of holiday baking. Pair these scones with a drizzle of rich maple glaze, and you've got a show-stopping treat that will impress your friends and family.
Plus, they can be served warm right out of the oven or enjoyed later with your morning coffee. With only a few ingredients and minimal prep time, you can whip up a batch in under 40 minutes. So why not bring a touch of homemade goodness to your holiday table? Ready to get started? Let’s dive into the delightful world of gingerbread scones with maple glaze.
Get the Recipe: Gingerbread Scones with Maple Glaze
Yield: 8 scones
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 18 minutes
Total Time: 38 minutes
These delectable gingerbread scones will become a cherished tradition in your holiday celebrations!
Ingredients for Gingerbread Scones with Maple Glaze
Essential Ingredients for Scones
To whip up gingerbread scones with maple glaze, you'll need some pantry staples to bring those warm, festive flavors to life:
- All-purpose flour: 2 cups (250 g) forms the base.
- Baking powder: 1 tablespoon to help those scones rise.
- Spices: Ground ginger, cinnamon, and cloves create that aromatic gingerbread essence—don’t skimp on these!
- Brown sugar: ¼ cup (50 g) adds just the right sweetness.
- Butter: Use 5 tablespoons of cold unsalted butter, cubed, for a flaky texture.
- Molasses: ¼ cup of unsulphured molasses (avoid blackstrap) gives a rich depth of flavor.
- Heavy cream: ¾ cup (180 ml) enhances richness, making these scones delightful.
Some of these staples, like all-purpose flour and baking powder, are foundational for many baked goods, which makes them easy to keep on hand!
Making the Maple Glaze
For the perfect finishing touch, the maple glaze needs just a few simple ingredients:
- Confectioners' sugar: 1 cup (120 g) added for sweetness and a smooth texture.
- Pure maple syrup: 1 tablespoon—this isn’t the time for pancake syrup!
- Vanilla extract: A splash (½ teaspoon) elevates the glaze.
- Milk: Just 1 tablespoon (or more as needed) will help achieve your desired consistency.
Once your scones are baked to golden perfection, drizzle this heavenly glaze over the top for a sweet, shiny finish. Enjoy your cozy morning treat, and feel free to share any of your own tips or variations!
Preparing Gingerbread Scones with Maple Glaze
Making gingerbread scones with maple glaze is not only a delight for the taste buds but also a charming way to bring the cozy essence of the holidays into your kitchen. Let’s walk through the steps to craft these delicious treats that are perfect for breakfast or an afternoon snack.
Gather Your Equipment
Before we start, gather your essential tools to ensure a smooth baking experience. You’ll need:
- Kitchen Scale: For precise ingredient measurements.
- Mixing Bowls: A couple of these will help separate wet and dry components.
- Pastry Cutter: This will help in evenly incorporating butter into the mixture.
- Baking Sheet: A sturdy one for perfect scone baking.
Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the following dry ingredients:
- 2 cups of all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon of baking powder
- ¼ teaspoon of salt
- ¾ teaspoon of ground ginger
- ½ teaspoon of ground cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon of ground cloves
- ¼ cup of packed brown sugar
This blend will create the perfect spiced base for your scones! Make sure to mix well to evenly distribute all the spices. Check out this guide on baking basics to enhance your baking skills.
Cut in the Butter
Next, add 5 tablespoons of cold, cubed unsalted butter to your dry mixture. Using your pastry cutter or two forks, work the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles small crumbs. This step is crucial as it adds that flaky texture we love in scones.
Add Wet Ingredients
Now, grab a separate measuring cup and whisk together ¾ cup of cold heavy cream and ¼ cup of unsulphured molasses. Combine this wet mixture with your dry ingredients, mixing until you see large clumps forming. Don’t overmix; you want to keep it somewhat rustic!
Shape and Cut the Dough
Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface. Shape it into a thick disc (about 8 inches in diameter) and use a sharp knife or bench scraper to cut it into 8 triangles.
Chill the Scones
Place your scone triangles onto a parchment-lined baking sheet and pop them in the freezer for 15 minutes. This step helps the scones maintain their shape while baking.
Bake the Scones
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Once fully preheated, remove your scones from the freezer and bake for 15-18 minutes or until they’re golden brown. Your kitchen will start smelling divine!
Prepare the Maple Glaze
While the scones bake, mix together 1 cup of sifted confectioners’ sugar with 1 tablespoon of pure maple syrup and ½ teaspoon of vanilla extract. If the glaze is too thick, add a tablespoon of milk until you reach your desired consistency.
Drizzle and Enjoy
Once your scones have cooled slightly, drizzle the maple glaze over each one. There's something incredibly satisfying about that first bite of a warm gingerbread scone topped with sweet maple goodness. Serve them fresh, and they'll be gone before you know it!
Get ready to impress your friends or cozy up with a cup of tea and enjoy these gingerbread scones with maple glaze. Happy baking!
Variations on Gingerbread Scones
Gluten-Free Gingerbread Scones
If you’re looking for a gluten-free option, swapping out regular all-purpose flour for a gluten-free blend works wonders. Just ensure your blend contains xanthan gum for the best texture. You still get that delightful gingerbread scones with maple glaze flavor, and no one will even know the difference!
Vegan Gingerbread Scones
For a dairy-free and egg-free version, substitute the heavy cream with a plant-based milk like almond or oat milk, and replace the butter with coconut oil or vegan margarine. These vegan gingerbread scones will be just as fluffy and delicious, making them a hit at any holiday gathering!
Explore vegan baking tips for further inspiration on your plant-based journey!
Cooking Tips and Notes for Gingerbread Scones
Importance of cold ingredients
When making gingerbread scones with maple glaze, using cold ingredients is essential! Cold butter and cream help create that flaky texture you crave. It prevents the butter from completely melting during mixing, resulting in tender scones that rise beautifully. So, take a moment to chill your ingredients before you start mixing!
How to achieve the perfect texture
To get that perfect scone texture, avoid over-mixing your dough. Mix just until combined; it’s okay if there are a few lumps. This will keep your scones tender and fluffy. Additionally, shaping your dough into a thick disc ensures even baking. These small tips can make a big difference in your final product! For more scone tips, check out King Arthur Baking.
Serving Suggestions for Gingerbread Scones
Pairing with Hot Beverages
To elevate your gingerbread scones with maple glaze, consider pairing them with a steaming cup of your favorite hot beverage. Think spiced chai, rich coffee, or even a smooth hot apple cider. The warmth of these drinks complements the aromatic spices in the scones, enhancing the cozy, festive feel.
Enjoying Scones with Spreads
For a delightful twist, spread a thin layer of cream cheese or honey butter on your scones. The creamy texture and sweetness add another dimension, perfectly balancing the rich flavors of the ginger and molasses. You might also enjoy them with clotted cream or even a dollop of fruit preserves. Try experimenting with different combinations to find your favorite way to savor these scrumptious scones!
For more ideas, check out this article on the best scone spreads.
Time Breakdown for Gingerbread Scones with Maple Glaze
Preparation Time
With just 20 minutes of prep, you can easily dive into baking these scrumptious gingerbread scones with maple glaze. Gather your ingredients and equipment, and you're ready to go!
Baking Time
Expect about 15 to 18 minutes for baking. This is the time it takes for your scones to achieve that golden-brown perfection while filling your kitchen with a delightful aroma.
Total Time
In under 40 minutes, you have delicious gingerbread scones ready to enjoy! Ideal for a cozy morning or as a festive holiday treat, these scones are worth every minute you invest.
Feel free to check out this article for tips on making the best vanilla extract to complement your glaze!
Nutritional Facts for Gingerbread Scones with Maple Glaze
When you indulge in these gingerbread scones with maple glaze, here’s what you can expect in each delightful scone:
Calories
Each scone has approximately 380 calories, making them a satisfying treat for breakfast or an afternoon snack.
Protein
You’ll get about 4 grams of protein, which can help keep you feeling full throughout the day.
Sugar
These scones contain roughly 31 grams of sugar, lending a sweet finishing touch alongside that delicious maple glaze!
Enjoy these nutritional insights as part of your holiday baking fun! For more information on the health benefits of ginger, check out this Healthline article.
FAQs about Gingerbread Scones with Maple Glaze
Can I make these scones in advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the gingerbread scone dough ahead of time. Just cut the scones, wrap them in plastic, and store them in the freezer for up to three months. When you're ready to bake, no need to thaw; just pop them in a preheated oven straight from the freezer!
How should I store leftovers?
If you find yourself with leftover gingerbread scones with maple glaze, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. Alternatively, you can wrap them individually and refrigerate to maintain their freshness. Reheat in the oven for a few minutes for that fresh-baked taste.
What can I substitute in the recipe?
Need alternatives? You can swap heavy cream for buttermilk for a lighter option. If you're out of molasses, honey or agave syrup can work, though they’ll slightly alter the flavor. For gluten-free scones, use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. For more baking tips, check out resources like King Arthur Baking.
Conclusion on Gingerbread Scones with Maple Glaze
In wrapping up our delightful journey with gingerbread scones with maple glaze, you’ll find these treats perfect for holiday mornings or cozy gatherings. Their warm spices and sweet glaze create a comforting experience. Give this recipe a try; your taste buds—and your friends—will thank you! For more festive inspirations, check out this collection of holiday treats.
Gingerbread Scones with Maple Glaze
Equipment
- Kitchen scale
- Mixing Bowls
- Pastry cutter
- baking sheet
Ingredients
Gingerbread Scones
- 2 cups all purpose flour 250 g
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ¾ teaspoon ground ginger
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon ground cloves
- ¼ cup packed brown sugar light or dark (50 g)
- 5 tablespoons unsalted butter cold and cut into ½-inch cubes
- ¼ cup unsulphured molasses (not blackstrap)
- ¾ cup heavy cream cold (180 ml)
Maple Glaze
- 1 cup confectioners’ sugar sifted (120 g)
- 1 tablespoon pure maple syrup not pancake syrup
- ½ teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon milk or more for desired consistency
Instructions
Preparation
- Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper and set aside.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, ginger, cinnamon, cloves and brown sugar. Add cold butter and use a pastry cutter or two forks to cut the butter into the dry ingredients until small crumbs form.
- In a measuring cup, whisk together heavy cream and molasses. Pour mixture over flour mixture and use a rubber spatula or wooden spoon to mix until large clumps form.
- Transfer dough to a lightly floured work surface and use your hands to shape into a thick disc, about 8 inches in diameter. Cut the dough into 8 triangles using a sharp knife or bench scraper.
- Place scones on prepared baking sheet and freeze for 15 minutes.
- While the scones chill, preheat oven to 425° F. When the oven is fully preheated, remove scones from freezer and bake them for 15 to 18 minutes or until golden brown.
- For the glaze, whisk together confectioners’ sugar, maple syrup and vanilla. Add milk if needed for thinner consistency. Drizzle glaze over warm scones and serve.
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